One to One: Coaching

Sometimes only personal attention will do. On several occasions recently, senior managers have asked us to work with them on an individual basis to explore communication style. Often this takes the form of pre-performance rehearsal: There is a big event coming up – a key note speech at a conference, a roll-out of a new initiative, a critical presentation to the executive group. The great benefit of working in this way is that the real and immediate pressure of the ‘first night’ focuses the mind in an amazing way!

On other occasions we have worked to address ongoing issues – difficult relationships, recurrent issues of confidence, or preparing for a new role with higher profile communication challenges. In each of these cases the tried and tested methods of rehearsal, direction and coaching from the theatre can prove highly effective.

“Working with Geoff was nothing short of transformational. I was tackling a long-held fear of public speaking, and Geoff helped me identify the heart of that inner block. But he was also infinitely practical in his specific feedback; in the tips he gave me for speaking to a very large conference; and in the content suggestions he made. Most importantly, he gave me real, inner confidence that I'd done the work needed, and that I could trust the work. I credit him with helping me make a huge and tangible breakthrough.”
Martha Morris-Graham – Consultant

"Geoff is fantastic to work with one-to-one. He doesn't try to impose any particular style on you - he helps bring out the best in your speaking style. He does this with honest feedback, clear direction, and great encouragement and support. He explains things in a way that makes it easy to follow. My presentation skills were vastly improved by the session with Geoff, and I recommend him very highly."
Syl Saller – Head of Innovation at Diageo

“This was a great session! - it really made me realise the importance of the how you interact, rather than the what of the content. The great thing about this session was that Geoff, as an actor, was an expert in understanding how others perceive you, and more importantly in explaining in a very practical manner how to change and influence those perceptions in different settings. The use of the theatre exercises gave me an opportunity to practice and hone influencing techniques in a non-work environment, with Geoff as a highly proactive, sounding board. Overall, I found this a highly challenging and definitely rewarding session.”
Alastair Shand – Senior Manager HBOS Financial Services